Read the passage: 'Soil degradation through salinization threatens arid agricultural regions where over-irrigation without adequate subsurface drainage raises the water table. The capillary rise of saline groundwater deposits mineral salts in the crop root zone, rendering arable soils barren over successive seasons.' What is the primary focus of the passage?
Options:
(A) The mechanism and consequences of soil salinization resulting from poor drainage.
(B) The economic cost of laying concrete subsurface pipes.
(C) The chemical manufacturing of mineral fertilizers.
(D) The rainfall patterns of tropical monsoon regions.
Answer Key:
A
Step-by-Step Solution & Explanation
The text explains how inadequate drainage and rising water tables cause salinization and barrenness in arid soils.